Stay Steady and Strong: Fall Prevention Awareness
As the crisp autumn air begins to sweep through the trees and leaves turn shades of red and gold, it's a beautiful time of year to embrace the great outdoors. The milder temperatures of September make outdoor activities like walking and gardening even more appealing. This transition from summer to fall offers a unique chance to prioritize your health and well-being as September is designated as Fall Prevention Awareness and Health Aging Month.
The Importance of Fall Prevention
Falls are a major concern for people of all ages, but they can be especially dangerous for older adults. According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), falls are the leading cause of fatal injuries among seniors. The good news is that many falls are preventable with the right strategies and exercises.
Fall prevention isn't just about avoiding accidents; it's also about maintaining independence and quality of life. Fear of falling can lead to a decrease in physical activity, social isolation, and a decline in overall health. That's why raising awareness about fall prevention is crucial. Staying active is key to maintaining strength, balance, and flexibility. When looking for fall prevention programs or programs to improve balance consider the following:
Balance and Stability Training: Find exercises that assist you to be more stable such as yoga, tai chi, and specific strength-training exercises that target your core and lower body.
Strength and Endurance Building: Building muscle strength and endurance is essential for fall prevention. Incorporate resistance training and aerobic exercises to help you stay strong and agile.
Flexibility and Range of Motion: Stretching routines improve your range of motion and reduce the risk of injury.
Fall Prevention Awareness Month reminds us of the importance of staying safe and maintaining our well-being. Don't let fear hold you back—embrace the beauty of fall with a strong and steady stride.
Exercise programs that aim to increase muscle in the lower part of the body, improve balance and coordination, aerobic activity and reaction time are best to help prevent falls. To learn more about the new video series Strength and Balance program you can do at home, click here.